SUMMARY

Depending on where you’re traveling to, the availability of nutritious food may be limited, so packing your own might be the best decision. Our list of recommended foods includes organic cereal packs and popcorn.

Fresh N’ Lean is the nation’s largest organic meal delivery service. Our tasty, chef-prepared cuisine is always fresh and never frozen, and we offer five convenient meal plans: Protein+, Keto, Paleo, Standard Vegan and Low-Carb Vegan. Choose Fresh N’ Lean for affordable nutrition, delivered to your doorstep.

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, taking a breather is necessary for a recharge.

The glamour of packing up your bags for a getaway seems almost picture-perfect. You’re cruising into the sunset in a top-down Cadillac or sippin’ on some champs in the airport’s VIP lounges. What’s there to not like?

While there are certainly many benefits to traveling, healthy food might not be one of them. While you’re taking a road trip up the Coast, you’re also giving up access to your comfortable kitchen. While you’re taking Insta-worthy shots in front of landmarks, you’re also surrounded by fast-food restaurants. While you’re indulging in your newly-ordered airport combo, you’re also missing the luxury of being able to read its ingredients.

The truth of the matter is that going on trips disrupts your everyday life, whether it’s your workout routine or meal prep schedule. With the help of yoga pants, some alkaline water, and healthy snacks, the going can get a lot easier.

Depending on where you’re traveling to, the availability of nutritious food may be limited, so packing your own might be the best decision. Here are some options we’ll submit for your consideration:

Cereal, but for adults

When you’re on-the-go, it’s smart to pack foods that are non-perishable. Organic cereal packs like Dr. McDougall’s will prove to be a lifesaver when you’re in need of a fulfilling and healthy snack. Filled with organic chia seeds, buckwheat, and quinoa, they’ll give you the boost of energy you need while making sure you get your dose of Omega-3’s.

Crossfitters approve

Some protein bars can seem off-putting whether hiding behind mini chocolate chips or added sugars. Now, there’s a protein bar that skips on the facade by promising all-natural ingredients. As listed on the front of each RXBAR, eating one is equivalent to eating 3 egg whites, 6 almonds, 4 cashews, and 2 dates. Skip on the additives, and munch on something with ingredients you can pronounce instead.

Not brunch on a Sunday, but close enough

When you’re brunching out on a Sunday, bottomless mimosas and an eggs benedict are a must-have. Unfortunately, while traveling, whipping up a gourmet-style meal is easier said than done, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy one of your favorite breakfast necessities. Get crafty by making your own rendition of devilish eggs. Slice your hard-boiled eggs, and sprinkle paprika on top!

Avoid airplane junk food like the plague

While traveling, you can expect to be moving around a lot. Expect that your bags are going to be lugged and hauled while going through security, so pack foods that aren’t easily spoiled or smashed. Hard fruits, like apples or oranges, or nuts, are small and easy to pack while making a healthier alternative to airplane junk food when you’re having cravings.

Every healthy person’s snack

Anytime you enter an air-conditioned facility, whether airport or hotel, vending machines seem to be more of an alluring appeal. Besides, who wouldn’t want a chocolate bar or sugar-loaded soda? Since we’re aiming for healthy here, SkinnyPop popcorn will be your go-to snack while on the go. As tasty as they are, they contain no GMO’s or artificial ingredients, so feel free to munch away minus the guilt.

Bonus travel food hacks:

• For a more eco-friendly getaway, instead of using plastic bags or plates, invest in an eco-friendly stainless-steel lunchbox like PlanetBox that you can use over and over again or 100% recyclable brown lunch paper bags.
• Expect that most airports will not have a public microwave available for use, so opt for non-perishable dry foods (snack packs like almonds, trail mix, or protein bars) that require minimal add-ons or little preparation.
• If you want to save on a few bucks while on-the-go this summer, carry your own reusable water bottle or tumbler. A water bottle can range from 5 to 8 dollars at a hotel (thanks, inflation), but by carrying your own, you can refill it wherever there’s a fountain, or simply ask your flight attendant. If you’re feeling fancy, DYLN offers portable water bottles that turn your water into alkaline water!

What are your tips for eating healthy while on-the-go? Share them below in the comments!

The post How to Pack Healthy Foods for Travel appeared first on Fresh n' Lean.

SUMMARY

Are you a vegan who is nervous about what to order when on a night out with friends? Here are a few tips to follow that can help ease the restaurant ordering process while sticking to your vegan diet.

Fresh N’ Lean is the nation’s largest organic meal delivery service. Our tasty, chef-prepared cuisine is always fresh and never frozen, and we offer five convenient meal plans: Protein+, Keto, Paleo, Standard Vegan and Low-Carb Vegan. Choose Fresh N’ Lean for affordable nutrition, delivered to your doorstep. 

It’s Friday night, and after a long day of being locked away at the office, it’s time to retreat.

As the only vegan going out amongst your pescatarian or carnivorous friends, times can get tough. You may face harsh judgment or the side eye of your girls, but they’re understanding regardless. As the waiter comes with the menu, they know that when it comes to your deciding, it’s going to take more than a few extra minutes.

Does this dilemma sounds familiar?! As a vegan, you should wear that label loud and proud.

Today, we’re sharing 5 tips on how to order at a restaurant as a vegan. This ought to help make the ordering process flow more seamlessly.

Don’t be afraid to micro-manage the waiter or chef.

This may come off as obnoxious, but it’s really not because it’s all in your delivery. As a restaurant in business, they almost expect to receive customers with different dietary needs and restrictions. Next time you’re out, you can kindly ask your waiter for the vegan-friendly substitute, instead. This may entail adding a side note when placing your order, like cooking your veggies plain instead of soaked in butter.

These days, plenty of restaurants have labels for the vegan entrees on their menus, so keep an eye out for those!

Ask the hard-hitting questions.

You may think that you come off as a snob as you ask a dozen questions about the menu with your resting B-face, but when it comes to your dieting needs, it’s okay to be shameless! When it comes to ordering food, now’s not the time to be passive. If you don’t want a boring or flavorless salad, try making modifications. Take an extra moment to ask questions like, “Is there fish in the sauce?” or “Can I substitute tofu instead of chicken or steak?” You’re not being extra by any means.

Try asking if dairy, egg, or fish sauce can be removed from your meal to make it vegan-appropriate.

Unleash your inner OCD-self and plan ahead.

That’s right. We’re giving you permission to be your natural OCD/perfectionist/au naturale self. There’s absolutely no shame in calling ahead to ask the restaurant if there are any vegan-friendly options or scour the menu beforehand so that you can plan accordingly. In fact, you can cut your time spent being indecisive at the restaurant in front of your judgmental friends if you walked in already knowing what you wanted to get. In addition, they may be impressed by your confidence, and hop on the vegan train, also!

Try downloading apps onto your phone like Happy Cow or Vegan Xpress that show restaurants that are friendly for vegans.

Smuggle your own ingredients inside your handbag.

Are you still #withher?! Maybe it’s time to channel your inner Hillary Clinton and start carrying your favorite items in your bag. In case you don’t get this reference, Clinton is known to carry her own hot sauce in her purse. If anything, this is legendary and a sign of preparedness.

Bring your own vegan pita bread, nuts, sunflower seeds, or whatever you need to have a good meal.

As a bonus, here are some life-saving examples of vegan dishes that you can ask for at restaurants specializing in international cuisine.

Indian

Vegetable curry, samosas, pakoras, dhal and papadums

Specify no butter or ghee (traditional Indian clarified butter)

Thai

Pad Thai without egg and shrimp, coconut curry, rice wraps, and sticky rice with mango

Specify no fish or oyster sauce

Chinese

Stir-fried vegetables, noodle dishes, fried tofu, and vegetable soups

Specify no meat or fish in the sauces and stock

Italian

Pasta with tomato sauce or pizza without cheese

Specify no egg in the pasta

Mexican

Bean burritos, fajitas, and corn chips & salsa

Specify no cheese, beans cooked with meat, guacamole made with sour cream, or tortillas made with animal products

Almost Any Restaurant

Salad without meat or cheese, sandwich with vegetables, soup with vegetable stock, and vegetables and rice (not cooked with meat stock)

What are the best tips you have up your sleeve when it comes to eating out as a vegan? Share them below in the comments!

The post How to Order at a Restaurant as a Vegan appeared first on Fresh n' Lean.

Fresh N’ Lean is the nation’s largest organic meal delivery service. Our tasty, chef-prepared cuisine is always fresh and never frozen, and we offer five convenient meal plans: Protein+, Keto, Paleo, Standard Vegan and Low-Carb Vegan. Choose Fresh N’ Lean for affordable nutrition, delivered to your doorstep. 

Have you ever had the feeling of wishing that the week was already over when it’s actually only Wednesday?

You want to disappear, but right when you’re about to drop off the radar, everyone seems to all of a sudden need something from you.

That girlfriend that ghosted you six months prior? She had a breakup and needs a shoulder to cry on. Your in-laws call you up saying that they’re in town and need a place to crash.

It’s one of those weeks, where you want to stay in Lululemon leggings, hide under a baseball cap, and hibernate. After non-stop conference calls and constant dialing of your sitter to see if she has extra time to help out this week, you can’t seem to catch a break.

Functioning is a lot to ask of you, and on top of that, whipping up meals for the family sounds like a chore times two. Cue the Hunger Games. You get the side eye from your husband (almost aggressively) wondering if you’ve left everyone out to starve.

The temptation to Postmates every meal is high, but instead of ordering up every individual meal each time, save yourself the time and hassle. Consult Fresh n’ Lean for all of your meal prep delivery needs. You’ll have every meal set and ready to go. No preparation needed.

Feeling lazy or having an off week? Need to feed some guests, but don’t have enough time to run to Whole Foods?

Not only do you need food that’s fast and easy, but healthy obviously sits at the top of the list! We selectively make our meals from the freshest and most seasonal ingredients to ensure that we have your cooking duty covered until you’re back on your feet.

Here’s a breakdown of the seasonal ingredients that you get when you order meals from our menu.

Cherry Tomatoes

That’s right — they’re officially a fruit and not a vegetable. Cherry tomatoes make the perfect add-on to any dish, whether a salad or quinoa, so you can expect to get your nutrients when you eat these! They’re packed with Vitamin B-6, which helps keep your blood healthy, so they’re not only good for your taste buds, but for your body, too!

Purple Cabbage

A boost of fiber is not only so necessary for your weight-loss plan, but a healthy dose for every day for the family! You’ll be thankful for purple cabbage, which is found in our meals and is packed with fiber to help to get things going and assist with the waste elimination process if you will.

Sweet Potatoes

Is it fall yet? Sweet potatoes will have the kids and yourself reminiscing on Halloween and Thanksgiving. They’re rich in beta-carotene, antioxidants, vitamin A, C, E, B6, and will help you maintain a healthy blood pressure.

Broccoli

Make sure you have a toothpick or floss nearby. Broccoli is delicious but can be known to cause some embarrassing moments. After your broccoli-filled lunch, take a look in the mirror before going in to meet with your manager. They are, however, delicious and good for you! Broccoli is rich in folate, vitamin C, beta-carotene, and potassium. They also contain a good amount of plant-based protein.

Brussels Sprouts

You may recognize these as being your favorite appetizer at any place with “bar food.” It’s your go-to wine pairing during Happy Hour. Brussels sprouts are high in vitamin K, vitamin C, and dietary fiber.

Kale

There’s something about kale that can make you feel like a superior being as everyone is munching on pizza or fried foods. Our meals contain kale, which has more iron than beef, more calcium than milk, and ten times more vitamin C than spinach. It is high in vitamins A, C, and K, so you’ll be getting your healthy dosage for the day when you choose to eat kale.

Cauliflower

We understand your obsession with the Trader Joe’s mashed cauliflower. It’s way better than rice and can be transformed into so many things to give you the illusion that you’re eating carbs when you’re not. Cauliflower, found in our meals, is an excellent source of folate, vitamin B, vitamin K, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Zucchini

Who doesn’t love a good vegan zucchini pasta? Zucchini contains a high source of antioxidants and vitamin C (one medium zucchini has more than 50% of your daily vitamin C needs)and contains an energizing source of vitamin B.

What’s your favorite Fresh n’ Lean meal that you’ve had? Share below in the comments!

The post Fresh and Seasonal Ingredients from Our Kitchen appeared first on Fresh n' Lean.

Fresh N’ Lean is the nation’s largest organic meal delivery service. Our tasty, chef-prepared cuisine is always fresh and never frozen, and we offer five convenient meal plans: Protein+, Keto, Paleo, Standard Vegan and Low-Carb Vegan. Choose Fresh N’ Lean for affordable nutrition, delivered to your doorstep. 

Maybe you’ve eavesdropped on a couple of housewives nearby raving about all of their latest happenings over brunch.

While sipping on some cocktails, they’re discussing the “V” word, and no, we’re not throwing it back to high school, where conversation material entailed discussing your V-card.

Somehow, the new neighborhood gossip has turned into discussing your new favorite diet.

The vegan diet has been forever a trend, but not everyone has hopped onboard just yet. If you’re on the edge and wondering if you should make the jump, there’s no better time than right now.

You don’t have to wait until the New Year to initiate a “new year, new me” pact. With now being the time that being “health-conscious” is more “in” than ever, here are the top 3 reasons that you should consider going vegan.

Cancel out the processed meats, chemicals, animal testing, etc.

You might remember the documentary, “What the Health” that released last year on Netflix and sent everyone into a frenzy. While you could be worrying about where your meats have been, you can avoid the drama entirely by jumping on a vegan diet.

It’s nice to see a delicious red steak plopped down in front of you at the dinner table. The presentation couldn’t be more appealing, but the reality is, depending on where your meat comes from, some may have originated from farms with animal testing or where chemicals are injected to make sure your food looks the way it looks. Sadly, not all that glitters is gold.

Even previous research has found that a vegan diet has been linked to lowering risks of certain kinds of cancers.

Before you make a decision, make sure to be in the know, or as your tween daughters would say, woke.

Feeling like you’re not ready to give up your carnivorous life? Try Trader Joe’s beefless ground beef that’ll have you tricking your friends into thinking it’s the real thing!

Not to be cheesy, but pave the way for future generations…

Going vegan may mean skipping the wine and cheese pairings after work over Happy Hour, so don’t mind it when Negative Nancy over there starts giving you weird looks or even the “side eye.” She just might not be in the loop with all of the latest in dieting or jealous that you’re flashing your new in-season Gucci handbag.

By choosing vegan, you’re not only choosing to take steps towards a healthier future but paving the way for your children to take the same route.

Kids take after you whether you’d like to admit it or not. They pick up on your language, your mannerisms, and yes, even the snarky remarks you may occasionally make at your husband.

Choosing vegan for yourself and your family will set the standard early that a health-conscious and high-quality diet is imperative for an overall healthier and happy lifestyle.

If getting your kids onboard with going vegan proves to be a hassle, try making fun recipes in the kitchen that they can’t say “no” to like these vegan gluten-free donuts.

You’ll start looking better than ever…

You’re a busy woman that’s constantly on-the-go, migrating from location to location, whether it be the office, the Pressed Juicery where everyone seems to know your name, the school for PTA meetings, or your home base. While the temptation may be high for a “healthy” takeout, especially when there’s a place at almost every block, you don’t have to give in.

Eating vegan can actually be more simple and easy than your former already-healthy diet. You don’t have to spend excessive amounts of time waiting for things to bake, roast, and grill. You can be out the door in about half the amount of time, and can help yourself start looking better than ever!

Previous research has shown that a vegan diet, in particular, has contributed to weight loss over time. This goes to show that you don’t have you don’t have to chow down on meal-replacement bars every hour or skip out on meals when you can maintain a regular and healthy routine with a vegan diet.

Still don’t believe us? Try this healthy vegan pad thai recipe that can be made in as little as 30 minutes.

If, by the end of all of this, you’re still not convinced — either because it’s too time-consuming or too much work hunting down vegan products at the grocery store, Fresh n’ Lean offers a low-carb and low-calorie plant-based meal prep option to ensure that you’ll have vegan meal options every single day of the week!

It’s not considered expenses when it’s an investment. Bon appetit!

How Small Habits Can Help You Go Vegan (The Fogg Method)

Somehow, along the way, you’ve been brainwashed into thinking that going vegan was equivalent to that of giving up life in civilization, eating plants for survival, and never having your taste buds fulfilled ever again. Dramatic much? Although the initial breakthrough can be tough, going vegan doesn’t have to be as painful as you made it out to be in your head!

Perhaps you’ve already decided that going vegan is worth a shot. You’ve tried recruiting the help of your significant other or best friend in order to get through the journey alive but to no avail.

Luckily, there are small habits that can help make this lifestyle transition a lot easier.

Today, we’re unlocking the secrets on how small habits can help you go vegan. Pretty soon, you’ll have nailed this whole thing on the head, and will have become the poster face for the vegan diet. Breezy and effortless!

Let’s dive into it.

Once upon a time, a Stanford psychologist, B.J. Fogg, studied behavioral change and how certain habits can lead to lasting change.

Insert The Fogg Method. It’s an easy 3-step system to help you create new behaviors, and essentially, change over time. That’s right. We have no room for backsliders here. In short, think of it as a mind-eff system to help you achieve your goals when it comes to the vegan diet.

This could literally be applied to anything you could possibly think of…like the little things you dread doing but would punish yourself if you ever let yourself slip: flossing, sticking to a budget, massaging your face, etc. The same goes for adopting a vegan diet.

To make your life easier, here’s a breakdown of The Fogg Method to help you achieve your diet goals.

Step 1: Don’t jump into the conversion right away. Start small.

Let’s be real here. If you’re making a drastic lifestyle change such as your diet, it’s best to not jump ship right away. We don’t want a  major culture shock if you will. Try breaking things down into the tiniest behavioral unit. This isn’t meant to be a discouragement, but a kind reminder to be realistic. If you are currently the biggest carnivorous eater you know, switching to a plant-based diet isn’t going to be happening overnight. Instead, start by eating more veggies on an everyday basis. Slow steps lead to progress.

Step 2: Do what you can to make this easy.

Another note to remember is that if you over-complicate things too much, you’re going to pretty soon resent it! Essentially, you’re going to have negative associations to whatever it is that you’re trying to achieve.

Don’t try throwing together complex vegan recipes 3-meals a day. That’s just a recipe for wrinkles on your skin and gray hair. Instead, aim for simplicity when it comes to creating a new habit.

If you decide to add a green smoothie, go easy on yourself. Keep the veggies and fruits simple. To start, save yourself time, and buy bottled green smoothies from Whole Foods for drinking every day. You can pour them into your favorite pink tumbler to trick people into thinking that you’re whipping up your own fancy smoothies on an everyday basis, and earning yourself a “Mom of the Year” award over here.

Step 3: Attempt to integrate seamlessly.

One of Fogg’s recommendations was associating any new habit to an already-existing behavior. For example, you already enjoy brewing a pot of coffee while Real Housewives served as background noise each morning. Try adding one additional step into your routine that’ll go towards helping you achieve your vegan lifestyle goals. As you wait for your coffee to brew, make a green smoothie.

Create a flow when it comes to your daily habits to help you get used to your new routine.

Last but not least, don’t be afraid to brag about yourself.

In case you have a weak moment and want salami on your charcuterie board with a glass of wine, give yourself the grace to be.

As you’re creating habits for a vegan diet, remember the progress you’ve made along the way. No step is too trivial, so we’re giving you the permission to celebrate yourself here and now.

Building solid habits will not only amp up your confidence but help you to achieve your goals (beyond health and fitness!) that lead to success.

Bonus tips:

• To ease in slowly, make Meatless Mondays a thing in your household. If the kids start complaining, use Trader Joe’s Veggie Burgers with Black Beans and Roasted Corn for meatless burgers.
• Request to substitute tofu instead of chicken or beef on your dish when eating out at restaurants.
• Make meal planning easy for your vegan diet by ordering Fresh n’ Lean low carb and low-calorie plant-based meals from the comfort of your own home. Check out the menu here.

Have you ever tried going on a vegan diet? What tips do you have to make the adjustment easier?

The post Why Go Vegan? appeared first on Fresh n' Lean.

Fresh N’ Lean is the nation’s largest organic meal delivery service. Our tasty, chef-prepared cuisine is always fresh and never frozen, and we offer five convenient meal plans: Protein+, Keto, Paleo, Standard Vegan and Low-Carb Vegan. Choose Fresh N’ Lean for affordable nutrition, delivered to your doorstep. 

A new season is in full swing, which means Summer Fridays, two-pieces, and beach reads.

With the seasonal change and our systems still adapting, we could all use a little boost to our metabolisms to help speed up the journey.

Making the right food choices will nourish the body, helping with your weight-loss journey and making sure everything stays in tip-top shape.

Next time you make a pit stop at Whole Foods, don’t forget to add these 5 metabolism boosting foods to your grocery list.

It’s not summer without citrus

Lemon contains iron, potassium, and antioxidants, making it a vehicle for defeating colds, clearer skin, and faster metabolism. Eating a lemon, by itself, won’t be the most pleasant of tastes, but there are multiple other ways that you can enjoy citrus. Another great citrus fruit is grapefruit, which has shown to aid in weight loss with a low-calorie diet.

Tip: Squeeze 1/4th of a lemon into your water every morning for a revitalizing spritz! Use the rest of the lemon throughout the day as a finishing touch to your salad or salmon.

The best snack for your handbag

Perhaps the most underrated snack of all, the Scandinavian “GG” crackers, have become a favorite amongst your favorite models, bloggers, and influencers. Packed with high-fiber, they make a great low-fat alternative the next time you’re salivating for a pizza or ham and cheese. Although there is no evidence suggesting that these crackers improve metabolism, they’re still a great low-calorie snack to replace with heavily processed crackers.

Tip: Top your GG crackers with Rao’s all-natural pizza sauce, mushrooms, shredded bell peppers, and vegan cheese for a low-calorie pizza.

Going for the grain

Maybe you’re cutting out white rice or pasta from your diet, but are still craving something just as appetizing. Whole grains like brown rice, oatmeal, or quinoa lessen the number of calories you retain. This helps to boost your metabolism, toning down your midsection and contains digestive benefits.

Tip: Add in oats along with flaxseed into your next batch of cookies for a health-giving gym snack.

Make ups-kale salads

Don’t overlook your greens if you’re looking to trim down this summer. Besides being dubbed as the “most LA” snack, kale is a great source of iron, helping spike up your metabolism and cognitive functions. Kale contains 33 calories per cup, making it an ideal mix for smoothies and salads.

Tip: Create your own vinaigrette salad dressing for your kale salad by blending olive oil, your choice of vinegar, and salt or pepper.

Revamp your sweets

So, you had to omit chocolate from your diet (gasp!). Fasting from certain sweets may be an arduous task, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy them at all. Dried fruits, like mangoes or cranberries, are a good source of fiber, helping to boost your metabolism and detox your body of its waste. Fruits still contain sugar so you still need to watch your sugar intake. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 6 teaspoons (25 grams) of added sugar per day for women and 9 teaspoons (38 grams) for men.

Tip: Choose dried fruits with the “no sugar added” labels on their packs for a low-sugar “sweet” snack.

Bonus metabolism hacks

• Sprinkle chili peppers onto your scrambled eggs or lettuce wraps. Capsanthin, a pigment found in red peppers, is its secret sauce, being an antioxidant that might help control your appetite.
• Consider this your permission to get caffeinated. Coffee surprisingly boosts your metabolism and physical performance, serving as the perfect supplement to your daily workouts.
• It’s time to kick back! End your night with an essential oil and oolong tea. As a traditional Chinese tea, oolong tea is believed to be correlated with trimming down your waistline.
• This one seems like a no-brainer, but drinking enough water is essential to boosting your metabolism. A simple trick: divide your weight in half — you’ll get the number of fluid ounces to drink in one day!

As a general rule of thumb, try to avoid acidic foods – such as meat, dairy and alcohol – and eat more alkaline-rich foods to improve the pH level of your body. All the recipes used in our healthy meal service support a wholesome diet, improve digestion, and may even give you a little kick of energy throughout the day!

Now that you’ve unlocked all of this summer’s secrets, you can take a breather knowing that you’ll be prepared, come your next poolside trip!

What food tips and tricks have worked for you on your weight-loss journey? Share below in the comments!

The post 5 Foods to Instantly Boost Your Metabolism appeared first on Fresh n' Lean.

SUMMARY

You can’t go wrong by adding more color to your diet. Turns out some of the most colorful foods are also the most nutritious.

Fresh N’ Lean is the nation’s largest organic meal delivery service. Our tasty, chef-prepared cuisine is always fresh and never frozen, and we offer five convenient meal plans: Protein+, Keto, Paleo, Standard Vegan and Low-Carb Vegan. Choose Fresh N’ Lean for affordable nutrition, delivered to your doorstep. 

The alarm has gone off, and it’s time for a reality check.

Ideally, you had an extra ten minutes for your meditation or yoga sequence, but in reality, you’ve waltzed down the hallway, robe half on, and are summoning for the kids to get up and dressed.

Between e-mails, appointments, and drop-off’s, eating healthy every day is a dream but can seem far-fetched. With a piling list of responsibilities, maintaining a nutrient-rich diet will only give you all the more energy to tackle that to-do list.

One way to go about having a more quality diet is adding a pop of color to your meals!

Today, we’re unlocking your creativity to have you believing that it’s a lot easier than you think.

Let’s dive in!

Not only for your outfit but daily juice, too

Color makes everything better. This idea is not only aesthetically-pleasing for the ‘gram, but is sure to fulfill your cravings, too. A green juice or fruit smoothie is an easy way to add a variety of fruits and vegetables to your diet — all in one serving.

Toss in your choice of greens, whether it’s spinach, romaine, or kale, along with lemon juice and some apples or strawberries into your juice. The final result — a tasty treat to have you lasting through your next cycling sesh.

Next steps: Try mixing this combination for your next juice: kale, orange, lemon, and ginger juice.

Get crafty with your fruits

Not only good for your body, but for the soul. Mix all of your favorite fruits into a mason jar to take with you on-the-go or to work. If you’re in need a fun snack idea for the kids, use your standard cookie cutters to create cute cutouts of your fruits whether watermelon, carrots, cantaloupe, or pineapples. Toss them onto a decorative plate for tropical fun!

Next steps: Don’t forget to season your fruit bowl with lemon juice or mint for a refreshing taste.

Sugar, spice, and everything nice

If you’re feeling spontaneous, swap the usual kale chips for some homemade fruit snacks! If extra sweet or tangy is your cup of tea, DIY fruit roll-ups or gummies are a healthier alternative to the store-bought packs. You’ll feel relieved knowing every ingredient while whipping up your next hit among the kids. This healthy gummy fruit snack recipe is delish!

Next steps: Make your own fruit puree from home with strawberries, blackberries, or cherries.

Here’s some flavor for your favorite flatbread

It’s time to shake up your girls’ night routine. Next time Housewives is having a marathon, instead of caramel popcorn or another glass of rosé, snack on a healthy vegan pizza instead.

Sprinkle sliced vegetables as toppings on your homemade pizza. Bell peppers, mushrooms, tomatoes, spinach — and if you’re feeling like it, pineapple, too! Is that even a debate?

Next steps: Experiment with healthier alternatives to white bread for your pizza such as flatbread or pita bread.

Quality, not quantity

The worst feelings to follow a meal are regret and heaviness at the end. What if we told you that you could have more nutrients in one sitting? Let’s make, “eat smarter, not harder,” a thing.

Transform your vegetables into a gourmet meal by dressing your bell peppers with healthy fillings! For example, fill your avocados (healthy fats) or bell peppers with quinoa or eggs. It’s a quick and easy snack that’ll have you feeling fulfilled in a good way.

Next steps: Try sprinkling homemade salsa, beans, and onions on top for a vegetarian-style Southwestern rendition.

Treat yourself to a dine-in night

If by the end of the day, your robe and slippers are feeling too comfy, save a trip to the grocery store. Have everything delivered to your doorstep, instead. With Fresh n Lean’s organic and home-delivered meals, you’ll feel supercharged after experiencing the life-changing benefits of premium and gluten-free ingredients.

Check out our menu that’s updated every Monday. With a plant-based philosophy, you can count on getting a colorful and nutrient-rich diet with every bite!

Next steps: Try our standard plant-based meal plan that has no animal products — enriched with nutrients, low fats, and always dairy-free. All natural guaranteed!

Eating a diverse range of colors will not only enhance your daily life overall but will also set you up for success. Sometimes, all it takes are a few tweaks.

How do you incorporate the colors of the rainbow into your diet? Share your tips + tricks below in the comments!

The post How to Add a Pop of Color to Your Diet appeared first on Fresh n' Lean.

Fresh N’ Lean is the nation’s largest organic meal delivery service. Our tasty, chef-prepared cuisine is always fresh and never frozen, and we offer five convenient meal plans: Protein+, Keto, Paleo, Standard Vegan and Low-Carb Vegan. Choose Fresh N’ Lean for affordable nutrition, delivered to your doorstep. 

Cue the fireworks, cocktails, and skewers!

With 4th of July just around the corner, sparklers won’t be the only thing making noise this year.

Every holiday, crowds gather around the block for parties and BBQ’s alike, ready to indulge in red, white, and blue festivities. The anticipation is brewing before the night’s fireworks.

To ensure that everyone has a memorable experience, the festivities leading up to the grand finale are just as important.

Now, hosting a party doesn’t come easy without the planning. Our team of experts at Fresh n’ Lean have created a go-to guide for this year’s big event. With every detail nailed to a tee, your guests are in for a spectacular experience!

Let’s dive into it.

Time to start the party + heat the grill! (Vegetarians not allowed – just kidding!)

The food at each event is really what makes it a party, bringing everyone together for a unique culinary experience. While we don’t know everyone’s diets, it’s better to err on the side of caution and have an eclectic mix. Having a meat or protein dish and a vegetarian dish will give your guests options to choose from.

In short, quick and ease are what we’re aiming for here.

The most mouth-watering food isn’t just savory, but healthy, too. One option is Fresh n’ Lean’s salivating and freshly-prepared and ready-to-eat meals!

You can visit our weekly menu every Monday to see what options are on deck for that week. Not only your guests will be guaranteed a high-quality experience, but each meal is packed with all natural ingredients and rich nutrients. This requires minimal effort since everything arrives ready-to-eat. You can learn more here.

Here are 3 super easy dishes to make if you’re running low on ideas:

Avocado Hummus

Skip out on the junk food. Instead of bringing out the potato chips and dips, avocado hummus and pita chips make a healthier alternative for those looking to “binge-snack” this holiday.

Tofu Nuggets with Maple Mustard Dipping Sauce

With the layer of breading over the top, this gives the tofu nuggets that extra crisp that’ll have you thinking these are the real thing — only healthier!

Thai Quinoa Salad

Nothing screams ‘summer’ at a 4th of July party more than the tropical vibes to go with it! This Thai Quinoa Salad will give your party that perfect mix of sweet and savory.

Don’t wait until it’s 5 minutes before to pass out the invites

Parties like the 4th of July can be rowdy, and at times, spindle out of control. As host, it’s your responsibility to hold down the fort. Your goal isn’t to clean up a mess, but to make sure one doesn’t occur in the first place. This calls for “preventive measures” to be put into place. Whether you’re sending out a quick text or formal Facebook invite, specify a start and end time. That way, you’re not left trying to cover up havoc at 2 a.m. once everyone’s left.

When sending out the invites, get specific. Is this a potluck or will you be providing the food and drinks? By giving guests a heads up, they’ll be prepared on what to expect and what to bring.

Get your creative juices flowing

It’s time to get festive! Whether your guests vocalize it or not, they appreciate the effort. When it comes to the decorations, it doesn’t have to get complicated. If you’re in a pinch or running out of ideas, Pinterest is a great source of inspiration. Whether it’s red, white, or blue balloons or table settings, a little detail goes a long way.

Don’t dig into your savings though when you can use what you have around the house! Home-grown plants in decorative vases as centerpieces will save you a buck over store-bought party favors.

Save the planet while you’re at it!

The night’s over. After singing and dancing to one too many tunes, it’s time to call it quits. Hosting a party can entail a rather large cleanup. The guests have probably all left by now, so you’re left with dealing with the aftermath. To ensure that your home doesn’t look like a tornado came through it, plan out the details.

You probably don’t want to be bringing out Grandma’s most fancy china this time around. Instead, opt for eco-friendly plates and utensils. For example, sugarcane plates are more sustainable than paper plates. Paper cups are recyclable over plastic cups. You’ll not only be saving a lot of time by sparing yourself a pile of dishes but saving the planet while you’re at it, too.

Detoxing as a hangover remedy will be your holy grail. You’re welcome!

After a wild night out, it’s in your best interest to make sure that you’re not cruising into work the following day completely hungover.

Here are a few quick tips to make sure that you wake up feeling refreshed:

• Drink your H2O! This one seems obvious, but often times, we don’t do it enough. Water will help to purify your system of alcohol and will help you get back to your sober state.
• Make a green smoothie. Get your body back into its normal rhythm by mixing healthy greens into your morning-after routine. This one will keep you feeling light, refreshed, and hydrated.
• Have a multivitamin. Restore your body of its nutrients by taking a multivitamin before heading out for the day. If you don’t have one, you can drink grapefruit, tomato, or orange juice for a dose of Vitamin C.
• Make sure to get plenty of sleep! If you already know that your body can only take so many drinks, plan to keep things to a minimum. Limit your consumption to 1-2 drinks if need be. Call it a night at 9 p.m. to get a good night’s sleep. You’ll be less regretful the next day!

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your 4th of July party won’t be one to miss! What tips have helped you with party planning? Share below in the comments!

The post Your Ultimate Guide to Hosting a 4th of July Party appeared first on Fresh n' Lean.

Menus at the White House have evolved over time, and some dish requests might surprise you.

Ranging from turtle soup to tapioca pudding– We have the inside scoop on our Presidents’ favorite foods!

INFOGRAPHIC

Presidents' Favorite Foods

Menus at the White House have evolved over time, and some dish requests might surprise you. Ranging from turtle soup to tapioca pudding– We have the inside scoop on our Presidents’ favorite foods!

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There you have it, every single US President’s favorite food! You probably thought Jimmy Carter’s would be peanuts, didn’t you? Well now you know better.

Fresh n’ Lean doesn’t offer all of the foods found on this list, but what we do offer healthy premade meals that are cooked fresh using organic, nutrient-dense ingredients, and full of superfoods that will keep you energized through your busy day.

So go ahead, view our meal plans and let us help you start eating healthier today!

Also, big shout out to the sites we used as resources for this piece:

bravotv.com
mrbreakfast.com
theawl.com
thisisinsider.com

The post Presidents’ Favorite Foods appeared first on Fresh n' Lean.

By the time it’s 1 p.m., the midday slump hits. You feel like you’re running low on fuel, and a Starbucks run can barely help to keep you awake. While you’re at it, the temptation to grab a pastry may be high, especially on their Double Stars Day!

Before you make a reach for the sugar-loaded double fudge chocolate chip brownie, remember that your taste buds may enjoy the sensation for a moment, but your conscience might experience regret, later.

It’s okay to treat yourself every now and then, but we often make decisions based on what’s convenient. You don’t have to punish yourself with crazy exercises when you indulge, but it is important to choose healthy afternoon snacks as often as you can.

Related: Guide to meal prepping for beginners

Make these 5 healthy afternoon snacks your first resort next time you’re experiencing mid-day cravings. They’ll make a delicious addition to your snack stash for the office!

Peanut Butter Energy Bites

Skip the heat and radiation by opting for a no-bake healthy afternoon snack! This one will be like music to your ears and requires no oven nor a microwave.

With 5 simple ingredients, you can make delicious peanut butter protein bites that are fulfilling and make a good source of fiber. This recipe will give you a breakdown of the steps, which will take less time than it’d take for your kids to get dressed and out the door.

YumEarth Organic Lollipops

If there’s such a thing as classy candy, it’s Yum Earth’s Hot Chili Mango Organic Lollipops. You’ll not only be hiding these away all for yourself on the top shelf, but the kids will be onboard, as well!

Organic candy has become all the buzz so that you can enjoy your favorite sweets minus the excess sugar. Now, YumEarth has become the organic candy brand in the country. You can see how quickly their shelves empty at your local Whole Foods store. Their Hot Chili Mango flavor is all the rage, and vetted and recommended by bloggers and Instagram influencers.

Vanilla Berry Yogurt Parfaits

Who says you can’t whip up a celebratory treat mid-day such as a parfait? These desserts aren’t just for birthday parties or special occasions only. After all, for all of the energy you spend listening to coworker rants or pretending to enjoy small talk with strangers, you deserve a treat!

This Vanilla Berry Yogurt Parfait recipe requires minimal ingredients, with items that you can pull from your pantry like a protein bar, berries, or chopped fruits. Not only are they as good as an afternoon snack, but you can bring them anywhere next time there’s a BBQ or pool party.

If you’re at the office and want to avoid looking high-maintenance, try using a mason jar or bowl instead of the usual fancy parfait cups.

Vegan Lettuce Wraps

Maybe your day isn’t as glamorous as a dinner at P.F. Changs, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a taste of luxe as you’re running errands! The chain restaurant may have come up with the original famous lettuce wraps, but this vegetarian version of the recipe makes a good dupe!

You can easily whip up vegan lettuce wraps by slicing pieces of lettuce, and topping with them with either Trader Joe’s Beef-less Ground Beef or mashing Vegetarian Patties, to serve as its toppings. These will taste so much like the original that your new nickname just may as well be, “Sous Chef!”

Tomato Basil Chips

You’ll win over your whole team and boss with this one! In addition to meal delivery plans, Fresh n’ Lean also offers a la carte options, with an endless selection of vegan snacks to choose from to stock up for the pantry. Our Tomato Basil Chips are 100% plant-based and will keep you powering through your day, feeling energized until the very end.

With these healthy afternoon snack ideas up your sleeve, you never have to complain about going hungry come mid-day ever again. While you’re at it, win some hearts over by bringing leftovers to your next cycling sesh. Sharing is caring!

The post Healthy Afternoon Snacks appeared first on Fresh n' Lean.

A vegan diet is a diet based only on plants and non-animal based protein sources. Vegans do not consume any animal products from meat to dairy to honey! All food is derived from plant sources, including fats, carbs, and proteins.

While the reasons to go vegan can be for health or ethical purposes, it can be a life-changing, and sometimes scary, decision to make.

Today is a great time to consider going vegan. With more interest from the general public and media, there has been a growing demand in food choices, cookbooks, scientific research, etc.

However, there are still a lot of preconceived notions about vegans and the foods we eat. It’s time to dispel those myths!

Myth #1: Vegan cuisine is bland

Eating a plant-based diet doesn’t mean just eating salads or “rabbit food.” A vegan diet opens itself to a great variety of foods, spices, flavors and colors from plants! Creative combinations and different preparations can expand one’s palate and sense of culinary adventure. You can really play with your food to make something delicious.

From raw vegetable sushi to barbecue tempeh, the possibilities are endless. With the abundance of vegan recipes, food doesn’t have to be boring, unless you want it to be.

Sources:

• Bryant Terry marries vegan cooking and African food traditions, with delicious results
• Vegan food doesn’t have to be bland or boring
• Meat free meals ‘do not need to be bland or boring’
• Vegetarians enjoy food as much as anyone else, so why are the meat-free options at restaurants so boring?

Myth #2: Vegan diets are all about Tofu

Tofu is a great versatile source of protein. It takes on the flavor of anything you make with it. However, it is not the ONLY source of protein for a vegan diet plan. Here are some other options:

Tempeh: Fermented soy cake that originated in Indonesia. It has a high protein and fiber content. It can be used in a variety of ways from veggie bacon to taco filling

TVP/TSP: Textured Vegetable/Soy Protein is made of soy flour. It can be used to create a plant-based alternative to ground meat, like in a Bolognese sauce or chili

Can’t do soy? Don’t fear!

Seitan: Made from vital wheat gluten, seitan has a hearty meat-like texture. It can be used to make burgers, sausages and more. Gluten-free? You may want to pass on this, but you still have a lot of options

Beans/Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, kidney beans, and miso are just a few ways to get your protein from beans and legumes. They are easy to add to salads, sauces, soups, and stews. They can be eaten on their own or over rice. You’re still getting protein with every bite.

Nuts: Nuts can pack a punch in the protein department. Almonds, cashews, peanuts and more can be used to make milk and nut butter. They can add texture and flavor to cooking. They make for some delicious desserts.

Fruits and Veggies: Did you know that 1 cup of chopped broccoli has 2.6g of protein? 1 cup of blueberries has about 1.1g. You can eat an abundance of fruits and veggies and still get protein into your diet!

Sources:

• If I’m vegetarian, do I have to eat tofu? What can I eat instead of tofu?
• See you later, soy! 23 tofu-less vegetarian meals

Myth #3: Eating vegan is expensive

There is some confusion between what’s vegan and what’s organic. Granted, in some markets, organic products can be costly. However, vegan does not mean organic. Therefore, it doesn’t have to be expensive. It’s all about how you shop!

Here are some tips:

• Shopping the perimeter of your local supermarket can help you stay away from higher-priced processed foods
• Farmer’s markets are a great way to save and support local business. Buying produce in season can also help lower costs
• Switch canned beans for dried ones. If you have a pressure cooker, you have a time-saver too!
• Shopping bulk bins, especially for dried goods like rice and grains, will often be cheaper than buying by the standard box

You may have to put in a little more effort than just grabbing ready-made meals, but you can save big in the long run.

Adopting a whole foods, plant-based diet can also have some health benefits! While veganism isn’t the cure-all to sickness and disease, you may find you’re not getting ill as often. It could save on medical bills in the long run.

Sources:

• Eating Vegan on the Cheap
• Is a Vegetarian Diet Actually Cheaper?
• Vegan on the Cheap
• Vegan on a budget

Myth #4: Animal foods must be consumed for increased stamina

Many of the world’s top endurance athletes are vegans from ultra-marathoners to body builders. To name a few: Rich Roll, John Salley, Patrik Baboumian and Austin Aries. All successful athletes who thrive on a plant-based diet.

Numerous studies have shown that a balanced, healthy vegan diet does not hinder endurance or physical strength as long as the body is getting the proper nutrients and minerals it needs. The Department of Foods and Nutrition at Perdue University states that as nutritional requirements are identical for both vegan and non-vegan athletes, as long as the athlete continues to ensure they have the right intake of fat, carbohydrates, protein and essential nutrients; all of which can be gained from a plant-based diet.

Source: 

• Fueling the Vegetarian (Vegan) Athlete
• Can Athletes Perform Well on a Vegan Diet?
• Vegetarian Eating
• The High Performance Vegan Athlete: It Is Possible!

Myth #5: Vegans need to take a range of supplements

A sensible vegan diet can meet the daily nutritional allowances one needs. However, in some cases, like with B12 and D3, a supplement may be necessary. It is important to get your blood work checked by a medical professional to ensure there aren’t any deficiencies.

Sources:

• Nutrition and healthy eating
• Vegetarian and vegan diets Q&A
• Becoming a vegetarian
• Do vegans need supplements?

Myth #6: A Vegan diet lacks fiber

Foods rich in fiber help your body’s digestive system. Fruits, vegetables, nuts and legumes provide the energy needed to manage your metabolism and the breakdown of food in your body. Fiber processes the vitamins and minerals in foods into your bloodstream. That energy also helps boost physical and mental activity levels. According to the American Dietetic Association, vegans should have an easier time meeting their daily fiber requirements than their meat-eating counterparts, as long as they follow a balanced diet.

Sources:

• 12 Frequently Asked Questions About the Vegetarian Diet
• Vegetarian Foods: Powerful for Health
• Vegetarian diet

Myth #7: Vegans are inherently healthier

As mentioned previously, a plant-based diet is not a cure-all diet. Vegans still face the risk of medical issues from the common cold to cancer. While the avoidance of meat can boost one’s health profile, it comes down to having a balanced diet. You may need to speak with a medical professional, like a registered dietician, to help ensure you are getting the rights foods, vitamins and minerals that your body needs.

Sources:

• Designing a Healthy Vegetarian Diet
• Vegetarian diet: How to get the best nutrition
• Vegetarian Diets

Myth #8: Vegan diets are for weight loss

While some have lost weight in transitioning to a vegan diet, it is NOT a weight loss plan or fad. Being vegan for ethical reasons doesn’t equate to health and vice versa. If one chooses to eat a whole foods plant-based diet, reducing the consumption of process foods, the potential exists to see greater health benefits, like weight loss. However, vegans, like omnivores, have to be careful of the types of foods they consume, especially those that are heavily processed and use refined sugars.

Sources:

• Vegetarian diet for weightloss
• University of South Carolina study: Plant-based, vegan diet most effective for weight loss

Myth #9: Meat-eating children grow taller than vegan children

Studies have shown that vegan children, on average, end up being the same height as non-vegetarian children. Some studies suggest that vegetarian children grow slower than non-vegetarian children at first, then they “catch up”, according to The Physicians Committee.

Source: 

• Growth and development of British vegan children

Myth #10: A vegan diet lacks Omega-3

Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fatty acids that help to reduce the chance of heart disease, inflammation and depression, among other ailments. They come in two forms: EPA and DHA, which the body produces. However, the greatest source has been fish and seafood. However, for vegans, fish is not an option. Luckily enough, Omega-3s can be found in a variety of non-animal foods like seeds, leafy greens and beans. They work to diffuse Omega-6 fatty acids that are counteractive to Omega-3s.

Sources:

• Q and A: Problems With Vegetarian Diet
• Vegetarian Diets
• California Food Guide – Vegetarian Diets

Myth #11: Eating vegan will leave you feeling hungry

A vegan diet is not one of deprivation. You should eat until your body is satisfied. Plant-based foods do not need to be limiting. Having a mix of complex carbohydrates with proteins, healthy fats and high fiber foods will help. Drinking a sufficient amount of number will also help the body feel full and satiated.

Sources:

• How to Eat a Raw Vegan Diet Without Feeling Hungry All the Time
• Q and A: Problems With Vegetarian Diet

Myth #12: Vegan diets don’t contain enough ‘Brain Food’

According to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, a study performed in 1980 showed that children on a macrobiotic or vegetarian diet had a higher IQ than those who ate meat. Note that one should consider this to simply mean that the parents of the vegetarian children were a more positive feature in the children’s’ lives, rather than vegetarian diets causing higher IQ. The important thing to note is that vegan diets certainly don’t cause a lower IQ.

Sources:

• Vegetarians are more intelligent, says study
• Boost your brainpower
• Vegetarian diets are associated with healthy mood states: a cross-sectional study in Seventh Day Adventist adults

Myth #13: A vegan diet lacks calcium

Reed Mangels, PhD, RD states that there is not enough evidence to support the statement that vegans do not have enough calcium in their diet. As part of the vegan diet, several vegetables, nuts and legumes contain a rich quantity of calcium. Dark, leafy green vegetables, orange juice and fortified soy are good options for those worried about calcium deficiency. Calcium is present more in non-vegetarian food, but one must remember that it is also paired with cholesterol, fat, hormones and medicines – strong antibiotics and vaccines fed to the animals that are possibly damaging to our health.

Sources:

• Calcium in the Vegan Diet
• Vegetarian and vegan eating
• Being a Vegetarian
• Vegetarian Diets

Myth #14: If you crave meat, your body is lacking nutrition

Although scientists believe that there is a link between the craving for a certain type of food and its nutrients (called specific hunger), food cravings in humans are most likely to be something different. Cravings are most closely linked to serotonin levels rather than a specific nutrient. This is why the most common food craving people have is for chocolate, despite it having minimal nutritional benefit. Craving for meat is most likely to be due to learned behavior, as endorphins are released upon the consumption of carbohydrates and fats.

Sources:

• Part 1 of PMS: Natural Solutions for Food Cravings Plus Recipes
• Why we crave sugary snacks… and not fruit and veg

Myth #15: Vegan diets are inappropriate for pregnant women

Being vegan is not a hindrance to pregnancy. All mothers should consume a healthy diet to make sure that they and their babies are getting the appropriate amounts of vitamins and minerals to promote child development. Working with a medical profession who understands veganism will help to provide proper support and guidance. If your doctor is not vegan, they should be monitoring your levels and blood work, as they would with their non-vegan patients.

Sources: 

• Pregnancy and the Vegan Diet

Myth #16: A vegan diet lacks protein

In vegan Myth No. 2, we dispelled the myth that tofu was the only protein available in a vegan diet. The current daily-recommended allowance of protein is 0.36 grams of protein per pound of body weight. By eating a variety of plant-based foods, it is not different reach that amount. So, the next time someone asks “Where do you get your protein?” you can easily tell them what you had to eat today!

Sources:

• Vegetarian and vegan eating
• Vegetarian Diets
• Being a Vegetarian

Myth #17: It is natural to eat food from animals

Donald Watson coined the term, “veganism” in 1944. It was defined as “…a way of living which seeks to exclude, as far as is possible and practicable, all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose.” Any act of animal exploitation, including diet, is viewed as inhumane. While some people may think eating animals is inheritent. It must be recognized that it is not innate. It’s a learned behavior. Now, people are discovering that meat is not essential to the human body, especially as more alternatives are created.

Sources:

• The Natural Human Diet
• Are Humans Naturally Meat Eaters?
• Shattering The Meat Myth: Humans Are Natural Vegetarians

Myth #18: All plant-based diets are the same

Vegans run a wide gamut, from those who eat mostly raw, those who are also gluten-free, to those who are willing to eat honey from a local source. All vegans are different in their beliefs and requirements, and therefore vegan diets are equally diverse.

Sources:

• These 30 Vegetarian Recipes Are So Good, You Might Rethink Meat
• The Vegan Experience: 60 Great Vegan Recipes
• 72 Hearty Vegetarian Recipes Even Meat-Eaters Will Love

Myth #19: Vegans are outliers

The vast majority of vegans are happy to be reaping the many health benefits of a meat-free existence, and with so many new ‘converts’ there is now a huge range of disparate people who follow a vegan diet for ethical, health or religious reasons.

Sources:

• 2015 Predictions From Vegan and Plant-Based Nutrition Experts
• Interest In Vegan Diets On The Rise: Google Trends Notes Public’s Increased Curiosity In Veganism
• Business and entrepreneurs seize opportunities in rise of veganism
• Nobel Prize winner predicts rise in veganism

Myth #20: Consuming only raw foods is unhealthy

Raw vegan foodists look to consume food in their purest form. While not much research has been done to prove whether an all-raw diet would be unhealthy, there have been studies to show some impacts to the body, both positive and negative. If you decide to go raw, make sure you’re not depriving yourself and are eating a balanced diet.

Conclusion

When you eat a well-balanced vegan diet, you reinforce your health and thereby enrich and lengthen your life for the better. Set aside the myths and you may find that following a vegan diet is the best choice for your health and happiness that you could ever make.

The post 20 Vegan Myths Dispelled appeared first on Fresh n' Lean.